Cars Don't Get More Iconic Than the Split-Window 1963 Corvette
Most still picture the one-year-only split-window when they imagine a Sting Ray, a testament to its enduring legacy.
Iconic Design
To this day, more than a few people consider the C2 Corvette to be among the most beautiful vehicles ever produced. And when it comes to C2s, most prefer the look of the split-window, 1963-only model that has become a hallmark of automotive design. Even if Bill Mitchell's iconic design had lasted more than one year, the split-window would still be every bit as coveted as it is today.
Photos: Chevrolet
Predatory Fish
The name "Stingray," or "Sting Ray" as it was written in 1963, evokes an immediate connection to predatory fish of the ocean. This is why two concept Corvettes shared the namesake of a Mako Shark caught by Mitchell, who was GM's Vice President of Design from 1958-1977.
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Complete Breakaway
In 1957, Mitchell gave some initial instruction to his "Research Studio B" team that included Bob Veryzer, Chuck Pohlman, Norm Neumann, and Peter Brock that included a challenge to create a car that was "a complete breakaway from what we've seen around here in the past." The resulting concept sketches depicted vehicles that departed from the rounded forms of the 1940s and 50s.
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Multiple Influences
Brock conjured up a sketch that was selected by Mitchell for further development. The design foreshadowed many of the trademark elements of the 1963 Sting Ray. The direct inspiration was taken from Brock's sketch, however, would be seen in the 1959 Stingray Racer XP-87. Larry Shinoda would create the final design of the XP-87, and in turn, the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray.
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Making an Impression
Former GM Vice President of Design, Ed Welburn, recalled the impact the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray had on him some years ago. "Around the bend came a 1963 Corvette Sting Ray Split-Window Coupe - its red exterior and red interior captured my imagination, and remains etched into my mind to this day," he said.
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Split Decision
As most are well aware, Zora Arkus-Duntov was not a fan of the split-window design mainly because it hindered rear visibility - something that he appreciated as a regular on the race track. Ultimately, Arkus-Duntov won out, later saying "we got rid of the split window for the 1964 model year, but there was blood spilled over it. My blood."
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Place In History
By 1964 the "split rear window" was history, but in large part, the famous design created by Mitchell's team lived on until 1967. Their success and the lasting appeal of the second-generation Corvettes would also go a long way in solidifying the model's place in American automotive history.
Photos: Chevrolet
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